The Las Vegas Raiders are enduring a disappointing season that has left them in dire need of a new quarterback for 2025. While the team’s long-term plan likely involves drafting a young prospect next year, a recent development has raised questions about whether they should pivot sooner. Former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, released after being benched, is set to become a free agent. However, signing him may not be the solution the Raiders need.
The Raiders entered this season with Gardner Minshew as their starting quarterback, a decision that quickly backfired. Minshew struggled as expected, prompting the team to turn to rookie Aidan O’Connell. Unfortunately, O’Connell suffered an injury in just his second start, leaving the team floundering. With their current quarterback options limited, some might suggest that Jones, a former first-round pick with starting experience, could be a temporary fix.
Jones is available after being waived by the Giants midway through the second year of his four-year, $160 million contract. No team is expected to claim him due to his hefty salary, making him a free agent soon. While the idea of replacing Minshew might sound appealing to Raiders fans, bringing in Jones is unlikely to benefit the team.
Jones has struggled to establish himself as a franchise quarterback, evident during his tenure with the Giants. His inconsistent performances and injury history make him a risky option for any team looking to build for the future. Even in the best-case scenario—where Jones performs well for Las Vegas—he doesn’t appear to have the qualities needed to lead the team forward.
Adding Jones could also hurt the Raiders’ long-term goals. If Jones outperformed Minshew, the team might win more games, which would lower their position in the 2025 draft. Given their pressing need for a high draft pick to secure a future star quarterback, any improvement this season could set back their rebuilding efforts.
For now, the Raiders are better off staying the course. Though the current situation is painful, enduring it will likely position the team to draft a promising young quarterback in 2025—a solution far more viable than signing Jones, whose recent struggles don’t align with the Raiders’ needs.
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